What is an ophthalmology clinic and why go to one?

26.10.21

If you’ve had an ongoing problem with your eyes, or a new, sudden problem, you may need to see an eye specialist (ophthalmologist). To see an ophthalmologist, you’d go to an ophthalmology clinic.

Read on to learn more about what an ophthalmology clinic is and the reasons you might need to go to one.

What is ophthalmology?

Ophthalmology is the branch of medicine that deals with your eye health. From diagnosis to the treatment and prevention of eye and visual system diseases. 

A number of issues can affect your eyes, so it’s important to pay attention to any changes to your eyes. This could be how they feel, how they look, or any changes in vision.

What is an ophthalmology clinic?

At an ophthalmology clinic, you’ll see an eye specialist (ophthalmologist) who will assess the health of your eyes. Some ophthalmologists specialise in different conditions of the eye, for example, ocular oncology deals with ocular cancer.

An ophthalmologist can offer advice on how to take care of your eyes, as well as recommend and carry out ophthalmology treatment for any issues they find.

You should attend regular appointments with your ophthalmologist to check your eye health, the same way you would a dentist. 

You should get your eyes examined at least every two years, or more often if your ophthalmologist recommends it. Though book an appointment sooner if you experience any problems with your eyes.

Reasons to see an ophthalmologist

There are many reasons you might need to see an ophthalmologist. You may have an issue that’s been bothering you for a while or a new issue that has come on suddenly.

Speak to one of our specialists if you experience any sudden changes or loss of vision.

Common eye symptoms include:

  • Red eyes
  • Eye pain
  • Teary eyes
  • Bulging eyes
  • Flashes of light
  • Dark spots or shapes (floaters) in your vision
  • Blurred vision
  • Change in or loss of vision

Common eye conditions treated include:

  • Cataracts
  • Glaucoma
  • Dry eyes
  • Age-related macular degeneration
  • Refractive errors
    • Myopia (Short-sightedness)
    • Astigmatism
    • Hyperopia
    • Presbyopia

Some conditions or factors put you more at risk for developing certain eye conditions. You may be referred to an ophthalmologist to monitor your eye health and prevent these.

These include:

  • HIV
  • Diabetes
  • Liver disease
  • High blood pressure
  • A family history of eye conditions
  • Autoimmune conditions, such as Sjogren’s Syndrome
  • Thyroid conditions, for example, Graves’ disease

What to expect at your appointment

At your consultation, we will thoroughly assess the overall health of your eyes. We’ll ask you questions relating to your eye problem, if you have one, and go through your medical history.

Bring with you a list of any medications you are taking and your current prescription – if you have one.

At the Clinic @ 78, we offer comprehensive eye tests for children and adults. Many eye conditions are preventable with regular check-ups. If you have any sudden, new symptoms you should book an appointment as soon as you can, to prevent permanent loss of vision.

Learn more about ophthalmology

Further information on eye health

The Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) provides advice on how to look after your eyes.

Coping with sight loss

If you are losing vision and need support, Fight for Sight can offer some guidance.

Diabetes and eye conditions

This article gives advice on how to manage your eye health with diabetes.

Living with glaucoma

There are some lifestyle changes that can help with managing glaucoma. Find out how to make living with glaucoma easier.

Why choose The Clinic @ 78?

The ophthalmology specialists at the Clinic @ 78 offer expert advice on how to manage various eye conditions and the ophthalmology treatment options.

Our services include:

  • Consultations
  • Eye testing
  • Minor operations

Our minor operations include laser eye surgery for glaucoma, as well as laser eye surgery for astigmatism.

Our eye health specialists have extensive experience in treating a range of eye diseases and conditions, using the latest minimally invasive techniques in our state of the art clinic. 

Before any procedure, we will carefully explain what the procedure involves and any side effects or risks you need to be aware of. We’ll also inform you of what to expect afterwards.

If you think you need help from our private ophthalmology specialists, contact us today to book an appointment.

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